A Classic Essay on :Penal Substitutionary Atonement: from
Theologian J. I. Packer:Penal substitutionary atonement—the belief that
Jesus’s death on the cross satisfied God’s wrath against sin—is central
to the Christian faith, but frequently debated. Is it just to
punish an innocent person in place of the guilty? How can the temporary
death of one substitute for the eternal death of many? Why doesn’t the
cross grant Christians unlimited permission to sin? In his famous
essay, late theologian J. I. Packer analyzes Scripture and the works of
early Reformers to defend the truth of Christ’s substitutionary
suffering and death, the heart of the entire gospel. Considered one of
the most significant short works on penal substitutionary atonement from
the 20th century, this careful, concise essay has influenced prominent
theologians and is essential reading for students, pastors, and laypeople.